KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 18): The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Malaysia in achieving a 25.5% digital economy contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) by year end.

MDEC aims to enhance the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), attract high-quality investments, and develop a digitally skilled workforce to future-proof the economy, said its chief executive officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil in a statement.

“A strong area of focus for MDEC is the acceleration of state-level digital growth, aiming to enhance digital infrastructure, nurture AI ecosystems, and drive SME digitalisation to elevate national competitiveness.

“This focused approach is aimed at empowering states to leverage their unique strengths while contributing to Malaysia’s broader digital economy objectives,” he said.

Additionally, Anuar said MDEC remains focused on attracting leading artificial intelligence companies to establish operations in various states across Malaysia.

“We are also actively promoting Malaysian tech champions, and supporting their expansion into foreign markets for export purposes,” he added.

Recently, Anuar led an MDEC delegation to Johor for discussions with Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and other state leaders. The talks explored collaborative opportunities and aligned key initiatives, given Johor’s strong potential to emerge as a regional hub for data centres, fintech, and digital content.

“Johor has the potential to become a regional hub for data centres, fintech, and digital content, supported by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the Iskandar Animation and Games Hub, making it well positioned to attract international investments and create high-value job opportunities,” he added.

Digital investments have played a crucial role in Malaysia’s economic growth, contributing to the 5.1% national GDP expansion in 2024. Under the Malaysia Digital initiative, total approved digital investments reached RM163.6 billion in 2024, marking a 250% increase from the previous year.

These investments also created over 48,000 jobs, a 109% rise compared to 2023.